The part about keeping your items tax free after you stop being a manufacturer...that doesn't sound quite right to me either, but I don't know the specifics.
OK, here we go, I've been reading this thread and trying not to comment.
You CAN keep items NOT prohibited by the 86 ban like suppressors, SBRs, and PRE sample firearms.
You CAN NOT keep firearms that are post samples (post April 86).
Get a FFL with the Class 3 manufacturer option.
It's actually an 07, 03s are just for sale or transfer, NOT licensed to manufacture.
this is exactly why i plan on asking the BATF about the legality of making one.
Yes you can, but really if you have the tools and know how to build a better suppressor, why not get the license.
But I know 2 dealers that sold suppressors, but quit after a few years because the annual fee was not worth their time for the number they sold.
Must have been some sorry dealers as the fee for being an 07 or 03 is only $500 per year, I sell quite a few every year.
But then again I don't charge MSRP.
It is time consuming rather than a quick buck, but I treat my customers right and they keep coming back for more.
ETA:
I am curious as to what ones you are using, but more curious about the ammo. Do you use sub sonic rounds in your 1522 suppressed? Do they cycle the action well? How quiet is the gun suppressed with standard velocity rounds?
Yes, in a firearm with a barrel length greater than 8 inches you need to use sub sonic ammo for the best effect, any barrel over 8 inches MAY be long enough for the round to go supersonic and cause a "Crack" as it exits the suppressor.
I use Remington and CCI subsonics in mine, and they cycle the bolt without a problem.
With good sub loads you'll freak as to how loud the actual bullet strike is, and on your end all you hear is the action cycle.
Here's a pic of my demo S&W with YHM Wraith:
Some of my demo units: (you have no idea how hard it was to balance that darn Walther on top of that)